VIDEO: First Electric Ferry Launched in Asia

The first electric ferry in Asia entered service in the southwestern port city Kaohsiung Taiwan on Monday, February 5. Authorities estimated the zero emission vessel will save about 65,000 liters of diesel and reduce carbon emissions by 170 tons per year.

The electric ferry, painted light green with black bear prints, is sailing between Cijin and Gushan. Its motors make no noise and it generates no diesel exhaust odor.

The newly commissioned ferry is 25.2 m long and capable of carrying 46 scooters and 150 passengers. It has 80 batteries and can sail nonstop for 4 hours, with maximum speed of 9 knots and average speed of 6 knots.